“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Lao Tzu

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Getting Somewhere

The public transportation is fascinating and indicative of the efficient and pragmatic nature of the culture. Public transportation in Seoul is fascinating. It is one of the most efficient and timely systems that I have experienced. As a city with approximately 10.5 million people, the city planning that went into accommodating one of the most densely populated cities in the world is reflective of the practically minded Korean culture. Korea’s progressive mindset and ability to adapt to change, exemplify the way that they have advanced in the mass public transportation process.

Communication applies to transportation due to it being an integral part of building a society and economy. Innovative systems of transportation promote economic growth and urban development thus making the city of Seoul an example of a successful system. The infrastructure supports growth and efficiency among commuters and reaches distances both inside and outside the metropolitan area.

The city is very pedestrian friendly, minus cars that initially seem like they won’t yield to people walking down small streets. Overall the wide streets and main roads are strategically planned and seem to form a system that stimulates movement and knowledge of timetables that apply to what would be presumed to be their daily and professional lives.

In the case of traffic accidents, because I wondered about his, it’s divided time here (major difference from the US). When there are traffic accidents, it was told to us that there are no “pointing fingers”, but a mutual acceptance of blame and then continuing on. This was interesting to learn seeing as exorbitant amounts of time are spent in the United States battling traffic accidents and seeking restitution from the party that is to blame. Black boxes exist and are placed on vehicles that issue tickets from a camera that registers driver’s license and tag numbers. The system is fascinating, having seen the Seongdong-gu operation and the success behind combatting traffic incidences and the way that it ensured efficiency.

Lastly, the mobile applications that exist for public transportation are more than impressive. The sophisticated planning that went into developing these “apps” is incredible and even more so that they are offered in multiple languages. The “Seoul Subway” app offers real time subway information, including, but not limited to, lines that should be taken, number of stops, and if a more desired route should be chosen it gives the time and amount of money that it will cost. This is beyond amazing for a foreign visitor to have.